Bonnie Gray
  • Blog
  • Soul Care Quiz
  • Podcast
  • Books
    • See All Bonnie Gray Books and Resources
    • Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less
    • Sweet Like Jasmine
    • Whispers of Rest Book
    • Finding Spiritual Whitespace
  • About
  • Speaking
  • Contact

Feed Your Soul :: { Day 27 } Don’t Give Away Your Voice (Book Giveaway: Brennan Manning’s All Is Grace)

By Bonnie Gray • October 27, 2011 • 142 Comments
* Brennan Manning Memoir Book Giveaway *
It's been *20 years* since Brennan Manning wrote the grace
shattering book "Ragamuffin Gospel".
Brennan's final book is out and it's his memoir.
 David C. Cook Publishers  is celebrating Brennan's final book today
by giving away TEN (10) copies here on Faith Barista.
Enter the giveaway  at the end of today's post!

“God loves you unconditionally, as you are and not as you should be, because nobody is as they should be.” ~ Brennan Manning

I had never felt a need for a father.

That’s because since the age of five, I’ve grown up without one.

It’s what some people say about being born without an arm or a leg.  How can you miss something that you’ve never had?

Now that I’m older, I can confess.  I have carried a father wound.

I just never had the chance to grieve it, until my story went off script.  Until a deeper grace found me.

There are the moments in life we all come to, when we say to ourselves, “There’s got to be more.”

It was during such a season in my life that I reached for a book called Abba’s Child, written by a recovering alcoholic priest named Brennan Manning.

When Life Goes Most Dark

At age seventy-seven, Brennan Manning (author also of Ragamuffin Gospel) has written his final book, his memoir All is Grace: A Ragamuffin Memoir.

All is Grace just released this month.  It is a beautifully haunting memoir which brings us to walk into the soul of the author, where Brennan cries out, “There’s got to be more.”

It’s a phrase Brennan repeats throughout the book, as he opens doors into the most personal rooms of his story.  Brennan’s earlier works that chronicle his encounter with God as Father have changed thousands of lives.  He writes in a way that doesn’t hide anything because he really believes God’s grace speaks through.

But his memoir travels deeper beyond pearls of encouragement found in his previous books.

Brennan is a rebel for grace.

While most people write memoirs to spotlight their triumphs over trials, Brennan chose to focus his lens on the moments grace shone brightest:  when his life went most dark.

Operating Room of Grace

By the time I finished the first chapter, I knew Brenna was leading me to the operating room of grace.  He was inviting me to step up into my Abba Father’s lap and undergo emotional soul surgery.

“[My mother] would often come home in the afternoons between jobs and I would run and throw my arms around her, only to be pushed away. ‘You’re such a nuisance! Go sit in the corner and shut up!’

As I think back on my childhood, the word shame serves as an umbrella. It is the sense of being completely insufficient as a person, the nagging feeling that for some reason you’re defective and unworthy.

That’s how I felt all the time.”

Brennan made a vow to protect himself from life’s cruelties.

It was a vow I understood.

“I made a vow with myself… I would become a good boy… I had placed a muzzle on my emotional self. I had no feeling, no nothing.

It cost me my voice, my sense of wonder, and my self-worth for most of my adult life.”

The vow to be a “good boy” robbed him of his voice.

In A New Way

I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey through childhood and it’s affect on me today.

How have held my voice back with God – and others?

Brennan turned to alcohol to numb the reality of his feelings, but we all turn to our own addictions, don’t we?

How did God speak into Brennan’s story?  I won’t giveaway the ending or even the middle.

I can tell you this.  There is no path that the love of Abba Father God cannot make beautiful.

Brennan’s memoir inspired me to look at grace in a new way.

Living out God’s grace means a lot more than using it to live a “good” life.

Each time we give ourselves permission to speak out of our brokenness, we say to each other:  God’s grace is bigger than me.

Never Too Late

Not everyone who has lived Brennan’s life would dare tell it.  But, Brennan tells it heart-breakingly well in his memoir, All is Grace.

It’s never too late to be loved by our real Father.  It’s never too late to find your voice.

Our Abba Father has always heard your unspoken voice.  He’s kept your whispers and cries close to his ears and He lovingly cherishes what others have not.

Those years we might have written off as wasted, God shows us He never did.  He values us deeply.

Is there more to the broken pieces in our lives?

Yes.  All is grace.
~~~~~

Do you carry a father wound?

How has your relationship with God as Abba Father given you back your voice?

Pull up a chair. This is a topic tender to my heart. I’d love to hear your stories and your thoughts. Click to share a comment.

~~~~~

** Brennan Manning’s Memoir Giveaway: All Is Grace **

David C. Cook is giving away the All Is Graceto TEN (10) WINNERS randomly selected here at Faith Barista (yay!).

To Enter:

1. Share a comment or blog post by Midnight Wed 11/2/11.

For Extra Entries:

2. Subscribe to Faith Barista and leave an extra comment letting me know.

3. Share this post on Facebook or Twitter (Click the “Share/Save” button below) and leave extra comments letting me know.

 

~~~~~

** Don’t miss! ** If you are new to Faith Barista, I’d like to invite you to join me on my journey this month — 31 Days to Feed Your Soul. Click to subscribe by email and get each post in this series served up hot and fresh directly in your mailbox.

~~~~~

To catch up and read the earlier posts in this series —

… Click Here!

~~~~~

*** NOW, IT’S YOUR TURN — FAITH BARISTA JAM! ***


FaithBarista_FreshJamBadgeG

Faith Barista Jam Thursdays — I serve up a topic of faith, you write the post. Let’s encourage each other. Add your voice. Swap our stories.

Share your post by clicking the blue button below “Add Your Link” or just comment directly.

Today’s Thursday’s Topic 10/27: All is grace.”
Approach it any way you feel inspired! Only required ingredient: keep it real.
Please place the “Faith Jam” Badge in your post and help build the Keep Fresh Fresh Community. Thanks!

Grab the HTML Code For the Faith Jam Badge


FaithBarista_FreshJamBadgeG

Next Thursday’s Topic 11/2: A gift you’ve recently from God.

An InLinkz Link-up


It’s a jam session. As time allows, say hi & drop a comment when visiting the community faith blends!

~~~~~

booksgracesoul foodstory

Share With Others

Share Your Voice

Pull up a Chair

This is a quiet space for you and me. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Click to comment »

142 Comments

Get Faith Shots

Get each post served up hot and fresh in your mailbox.

[newsletter_signup_form id=0]

Feed Your Soul :: { Day 26 } Forgivenesss Doesn't Come From a Vending Mahine
Feed Your Soul :: { Day 28 } Why Pray With Others

Connect with Me

Bonnie Gray

Welcome to Faith Barista – a blog that serves up shots of faith for everyday life. Posts brewed hot & fresh. Hang out. Swap some stories.

You Might Also Like

  • Never Been Kissed: When You Wonder If You’ll Ever Find “The One”

  • Little Ways to Be Present First Thing In the Morning (The Better Life by Claire Diaz-Ortiz)

  • The Pink Outfit: Why Joy Takes Courage: Choose Joy

  • Don’t Despise Small Beginnings. #BeginNew #SpringChallenge (FREE PRINTABLE)

142 Comments

  • Reply Shanda Oakley October 27, 2011 at 1:31 am

    Thank you for this recommendation as this is one I have not read. Your review makes me want to go out right now to buy it. I have a wonderful father and could not ask for different. Yet, even so, the words you and he have written have spoken to my heart.

  • Reply Alyssa Santos October 27, 2011 at 2:58 am

    Ragamuffin Gospel had a tremendous effect on my understanding of Grace — can’t wait to read this one. Thanks for the review and mostly, thanks for sharing your father-wounds. Life here leaves us all wounded one way or another and sometimes we wound others; we are hopeless without grace. Blessings, Alyssa (I’ll be subscribing and fb-ing this:)

  • Reply Jeri T. October 27, 2011 at 3:10 am

    Like Brennan, I carry the Mother wound. I’m so thankful God gently and slowly heals me. I’m reading a few books right now and one of them is the Ragamuffin Gospel. Excited to share that we pick up my copy of All is Grace tomorrow evening adding book 3…lol. I’m freaking out to find that your post is about both these books.

    I find healing here Bonnie. Lately, I find assurance that I’m doing what I’m supposed to be right where I’m at.

  • Reply Amy Hunt October 27, 2011 at 4:25 am

    Oh, friend, this touches my heart so deeply today. He’s led me to See *Grace* in such different ways, and I’m all on it about how All. Is. Grace. — it’s so true. It’s so freeing to splash in that truth! And my heart cry is to talk about this, write about this, live this.

    I’ve my own father wounds and it’s the life I’ve lived up until now–the years and miles in between–that have led me to See Him as my Daddy. Such. Grace. …even (ESPECIALLY) in my human weakness and perfect failings.

    Rich blessings as He leads you to a richness in these coming days, bringing all of these posts together in beauty.

  • Reply Nikole Hahn October 27, 2011 at 5:08 am

    I turned to the credit card. That was my addiction though I didn’t realize it at the time. Dumping clothes and jewerly into that hole in me and using relationships to also attempt to fill the gap did nothing to ease the hurt. All it did was make it worse in so many ways. I took so many risks.

    Wish someone had told me about my Heavenly Father. Instead, I played that role well, too, so that people thought I was a believer. I thought I was a believer.

    Our Father is amazing. He’s the perfect Father and steps into the gaps and more.

  • Reply Louiseg October 27, 2011 at 5:17 am

    I needed a belief in the Heavenly Father to fill the human pains I carried with such shame. It was only when I started to embrace my Divine essence as one of His Children that I truly felt healing in my heart.

  • Reply Lindsey van Niekerk October 27, 2011 at 6:15 am

    –Wow. This is SUCH a powerful post, and it rings true with me over and over and over again. I think because grace has become something brand new for me in this season….thank you for these words….

    “While most people write memoirs to spotlight their triumphs over trials, Brennan chose to focus his lens on the moments grace shone brightest: when his life went most dark.”

    –I wonder if I can allow grace to shine THROUGH me in this way….to give HIM the UTMOST glory….
    and this one from the author….

    “I made a vow with myself… I would become a good boy… I had placed a muzzle on my emotional self. I had no feeling, no nothing.

    It cost me my voice, my sense of wonder, and my self-worth for most of my adult life.”

    –I didn’t even know that I had done that until this year. Now I am learning to walk in new freedom, new life, the rhythms of grace.

    Thank you so much, Bonnie!!

  • Reply Monica Sharman October 27, 2011 at 6:49 am

    Bonnie,
    That operating room of grace—perfect. Lord, take Your scalpel to me…

    I’ve closed myself up, too. It wasn’t healthy, but God did cause me to open those thick, locked doors. It is good!

  • Reply Monica Sharman October 27, 2011 at 6:53 am

    Just posted on Facebook. 🙂

  • Reply ed cyzewski October 27, 2011 at 6:54 am

    God takes his time with us. I find that I need to keep bringing my failures to him. It’s funny that I think, “No, I’ve failed one too many times. I’ve exhausted his grace and forgiveness.” There is a kind of persistence we need when we bring our sins to him and let him begin to work on us. I’ve learned that asking God to identify and remove the sources of my sins takes time, but there is real progress to be made. Who better to teach us about these principles than a recovering alcoholic?

    Great words today Bonnie!

  • Reply Connie October 27, 2011 at 7:28 am

    I love Brennan Manning’s books. I am reading Abba’s Child right now. Ragamuffin Gospel rocked my world. Thanks for letting us know he has a new one out!

  • Reply Angela October 27, 2011 at 7:39 am

    I have always loved Brennan Manning’s books. He has made a significant impact on how I see God and His grace.

  • Reply Tolu October 27, 2011 at 7:42 am

    Well,i’m still trying to find my voice,i know my heavenly father will always be there for me,His grace is sufficient for me…Thanks Bonnie for this reassurance.

  • Reply Valerie October 27, 2011 at 7:53 am

    Thank you for this opportunity. It will be a lifelong journey to receive more and more needed grace for this girl. Excited to read this book!

  • Reply Janet October 27, 2011 at 8:04 am

    Awesome – thank you

  • Reply Melissa Doddridge October 27, 2011 at 8:04 am

    I deeply desire to be a rebel of grace, too! I am reading my
    first Brennan book right now, The Ragamuffin Gospel. He is a kindred spirit of mine for sure!

  • Reply Alecia October 27, 2011 at 8:07 am

    lovely giveaway!

  • Reply Alecia October 27, 2011 at 8:08 am

    I am a Faith Barista follower! 🙂

  • Reply Alecia October 27, 2011 at 8:09 am

    I tweeted about the giveaway!

    http://twitter.com/#!/alecia8

  • Reply Melissa Doddridge October 27, 2011 at 8:10 am

    I posted this link on my Facebook wall. 🙂

  • Reply Stacy October 27, 2011 at 8:11 am

    You know what ‘s funny? I just added this to my 2012 reading wishlist yesterday. It’d be great to win it, but I plan on buying it anyway if I don’t. Thanks for this opportunity Bonnie.

    I also have a father wound. God has healed that over the years since his death. But I was thinking about your comment “those years we might have written off as wasted”. God is using the experience of those years in my life now and it is such a wonderful thing to know that they were not wasted. He is restoring the years that the locust had eaten.

    Thank you for this post Bonnie.

  • Reply Shannon October 27, 2011 at 8:13 am

    I’ve always wanted to read Ragamuffin Gospel, and now I want to read his memoir!

  • Reply Caitlin October 27, 2011 at 8:13 am

    Ah! I need to read this! I feel that I fit exactly into those words that you shared. I am slowly regaining my voice as I let Father God into my heart, but it’s a sloooow process. I can’t wait to be healed and whole! I have such a burning to be used by God, but the idea still scares me a lot sometimes. I can’t wait until I’m free from the fear of rejection 🙂

    Thanks for sharing, Bonnie!

  • Reply Eileen October 27, 2011 at 8:30 am

    Thank You I do hope to receive a copy and I shared this with my facebook family

  • Reply Amy Nabors October 27, 2011 at 8:35 am

    I just bought Ragamuffin Gospel last week. Would love to read this.

  • Reply Jessica October 27, 2011 at 8:41 am

    Today is one of those days where I’m not even sure I have strength to type a reply as the tears cascade down my face. Yeah, one of -those- mornings. Thank you for your candid words, so eloquently collected. 🙂

    Ragamuffin Gospel was my first introduction to the Abba Father, something this abandoned, fatherless child ached for. It was the first time I had seen what an UNconditional love relationship with our great God really looked like put to flesh. And having just finished Ann Voskamp’s 1000 Gifts, a book that also culminates with the understanding that “All is Grace,” that title plus Brennan Manning must equal… something life-journey changing.

    As much as I love winning things (already a subscriber, I think, and posted to FB already!!), I too plan to purchase the book to read soon. So if I am chosen, I would appreciate it if you could choose another name. There are others who might need it more, and be less able to do themselves. 🙂

    Thank you again, Bonnie. I’m really enjoying this series, and your posts as always.

  • Reply Robin Chambon October 27, 2011 at 8:44 am

    What a wonderful post, I am going out today to get ragamuffin gospel. I have a father wound that began at age 5 when I was confronted with the reality of domestic violence. My father was very abusive to my mother and I always felt such a deep sense of fear and insecurity. It was a terrible time and it gradually became worse and worse. However, it was during this time that my Heavenly Father found me and came to me for the first time. As a 6 or 7 year old girl who feared daily that her father would kill her mother during the night, my Loving Father came to me personally and told me he loved me and not to be afraid that everything was going to be okay. I knew He was right and I felt a deep sense of relief and love that I have always trusted in. The wounds that I acquired as a little girl are real and at times interfere with my serenity, however the true Love I experienced has never left me.

  • Reply Robin Dewolf October 27, 2011 at 8:46 am

    There have been many dark hours in my life that only God’s Grace has helped me to get through. I would love to read this book!

  • Reply Robin Dewolf October 27, 2011 at 8:47 am

    I am a subscriber! Please enter me in this giveaway!

  • Reply Irisha October 27, 2011 at 8:47 am

    My father was an alcoholic and I also had that deep wound in my heart that ached badly. I used to say that I didn’t need an earthly father since my Heavenly Father was taking care of me, but truth remained truth that my heart was wounded and it was after I read Brennan’s “Abba’s Child” that God began to restore me and heal my painful childhood memories. I am so grateful to God for Brennan’s books, because it always seems to me that he was writing with me in mind. His books bring me peace and healing. Thank you for sharing this. And I subscribed to your blog and shared this with my friends on Facebook.

  • Reply Irisha October 27, 2011 at 8:49 am

    I have subscribed to your blog

  • Reply Robin Dewolf October 27, 2011 at 8:49 am

    Shared on Facebook!

  • Reply Irisha October 27, 2011 at 8:50 am

    I have shared this article with my friends on Facebook

  • Reply Amy October 27, 2011 at 8:56 am

    This sounds like a wonderful book, and I’m adding it to my list of books to look for. I’m already a subscriber to the blog, by the way.

  • Reply Julie Sunne October 27, 2011 at 9:03 am

    “There is no path that the love of Abba Father God cannot make beautiful.” You speak truth, Bonnie! I have lived it as many others have. But we all need this encouraging reminder during those truly dark moments. Thanks for a wonderful post. It makes me want to order All is Grace right away.

  • Reply Deanne Moore October 27, 2011 at 9:03 am

    Thank you for getting the word out on this book. I can’t wait to read it and add it to my Brennan Manning collection of books.

  • Reply Julie Sunne October 27, 2011 at 9:04 am

    I’m already a subscriber and enjoying every minute of it!

  • Reply Ruthinthedesert October 27, 2011 at 9:05 am

    This sounds like a beautiful and relevant book.

  • Reply Edy October 27, 2011 at 9:10 am

    I am new to Brennan Manning’s work but what I have read rings God’s truth to my core. His writing makes me want to be able to sit and have coffee with him. It makes me wish I had him as a father/mentor figure in my life. Since I can’t I will continue to know him through his books!
    Blessings

  • Reply Julie Sunne October 27, 2011 at 9:10 am

    Shared on Facebook and Twitter!

  • Reply Rick Schellhammer October 27, 2011 at 9:10 am

    Having read several of Brennan’s previous books (Ragamuffin Gospel, Abba’s Child, Ruthless Trust) I’d love to read his final opus. Please enter me in the giveaway, if it isn’t too late.

  • Reply Amber October 27, 2011 at 9:19 am

    Wow, that is all that comes to mind. The bravest ones, I believe, are the ones that hear God the loudest.

  • Reply Lindsay October 27, 2011 at 9:20 am

    As I grieve and process at the end of one of my own “darkest moments” I am inspired and hope is relinquished reading this post… I certainly need to know that God is using such moments of my life that not all is hopless and although I may label it as “wasted,” it’s so much more in God’s eyes. Thanks be to God – that He knows all and continues to work in us and through us inspite of ourselves

  • Reply Kristine McGuire October 27, 2011 at 9:20 am

    The answer to your question is yes. But I learned as a teenager to view myself through my Father’s eyes. There have been times in the past when I’ve forgotten (and the eight years where I willfully looked away) but I know I am valued and loved as I am because He created me.
    Brennan Manning is one of my husband’s favorite author’s. I’ll have to get him this book.

  • Reply Sharon October 27, 2011 at 9:21 am

    would love to win the book. It sounds wonderful.

  • Reply Christy October 27, 2011 at 9:22 am

    Loving this series And love Mr Manning’s work.

  • Reply Linda Marcy October 27, 2011 at 9:22 am

    Brought me to tears. Opened my soul, helped me see clear my own life muzzled.

  • Reply Ellen S. October 27, 2011 at 9:23 am

    I, personally, had a very loving Father, who loved God with all his heart. My husband, on the other hand, experienced some of the very things you mention that Brennan Manning also encountered. It takes years to overcome those very things sometimes and, with God’s grace, my husband has made progress in doing so. Only God can help heal those that suffer silently, much of the time, Thank you, Jesus, for your neverending grace.

  • Reply Marina Bromley October 27, 2011 at 9:24 am

    I’ve been a Manning fan for several years. The first book I read, The Ragamuffin Gospel – took me ages to process. I had to take it bite-by-bite and work it through my heart and mind. I had been building my faith on a faulty foundation of the American church, and realized then that I was a ragamuffin through and through. Praise God He loves ragamuffins!!
    I can’t wait to read this book. I know that it will minister to the times in my life that I hid my voice, allowed it to be stolen – or in my case – was only allowed to use my voice when it echoed my earthly father’s causes (not my heart).
    Thanks for sharing, inspiring, indulging us!!
Love your heart!!
marina
(still finding my feet after 10 days in Tunisia, and pseudo-blogging at another site while going through 1000 photos!)

  • Reply Chris Arthur October 27, 2011 at 9:24 am

    Good morning, at least it is where I am. It’s a little overcast but the sun could come out later in the day. Anyway, I didn’t have a father problem although my sons did. My ex was horrible to my son from a previous marriage and his own son. My son Billy, sees him once a year and he is OK with that. The good thing from all this is he is a fantastic father to his son. It’s so good to see them together. God is good all the time and I know He has great things in store for my sons. God bless. Chris

  • Reply Eileen October 27, 2011 at 9:25 am

    But for His Grace go you and I.

  • Reply Shannon October 27, 2011 at 9:26 am

    By the way, I subscribe to Faith Barista!

  • Reply Mark Bushor October 27, 2011 at 9:27 am

    Would love to have a copy of Brennan Manning’s newest book. I’ve read the furious longing of God several times.

  • Reply Bekka October 27, 2011 at 9:28 am

    Daddy issues – that’s a can of worms. My dad passed away two years ago this past June. Having come to the realization early on that my earthly father was not perfect, it made me realize how many people (myself included) have trouble relating to a Perfect Heavenly Father. Sometimes it’s hard to just let Him be who He is without putting Him into the “How fathers have failed” box with everyone else…
    Sounds like a great read.

  • Reply Jennifer Balad October 27, 2011 at 9:29 am

    Not only would I be blessed by Brennan Manning’s words from his new book, but God is also using you to speak to me through your blog — I am now a subscriber — thank you!
    Jennifer Ballad

  • Reply Irma October 27, 2011 at 9:31 am

    Hi Bonnie! Your post did speak to me in a real way! I have also carried the Father wound for many years throughout my teenage years and it wasn’t until 2 years back that at a service, this empty feeling and all it hid caused me to break apart. It was in that moment of brokenness there and then that I felt the Lord piece the broken pieces together. It was something I used to deny the reality of but that day I realised that the Lord had always been there all along, ready to pour his love over me and make me complete.
    “Those years we might have written off as wasted, God shows us He never did. He values us deeply.” How true. Ever since, I’ve been a changed person, relying on the Father’s love for me.
    Thank you for sharing this with us Bonnie.
    Haven’t read the book so would be pleased to be entered for the giveaway.

  • Reply Cindy Morris October 27, 2011 at 9:45 am

    I was given a copy of the “Ragamuffin Gospel” by my Pastor when I first became a Christian. It was like it was written for me. I developed a deeper more personal relationship with God and my Lord Jesus Christ after reading it. It made me feel more included in the new way of life that I was starting.
    I can’t wait to read the new book.

  • Reply Helen October 27, 2011 at 9:47 am

    What a great giveaway.
    I had the blessed opportunity to hear Brennan Manning
    speak years ago and was just astounded by his humility
    and deep abiding love of God.
    I would love to read his memoir.

  • Reply Lisa notes October 27, 2011 at 9:51 am

    I will have to read this book. I love Brennan’s writings already and his vulnerability and grace in them. Thanks for sharing this, Bonnie.

  • Reply Jennifer October 27, 2011 at 10:01 am

    I’m still working on finding my voice again. While I’m sad to see that so many other people are struggling with the same thing, it’s nice to know I’m not “weird” for feeling this way.

  • Reply Priscilla October 27, 2011 at 10:09 am

    I enjoy reading your blogs and the insights you share! I’ve never read any of Brennan Manning’s books and after reading your write up of his book, it has sparked my interest in wanting to read it! I admire those who have the gift of being able to pen their deepest thoughts and experiences and share it so others can appreciate and learn from them. This is a topic that can be further realized in our lives, however we are often so busy living our lives, that it takes others to point out the void that we aren’t aware we have until it is made known. So, yep I am a subscriber to your blog, but don’t have a chance to read often enough. Just happened to see it today. Thanks!

  • Reply irene October 27, 2011 at 10:10 am

    Reading pieces of your story and Brennan’s story deeply resonates with me. Thanks so much for your words.

  • Reply Tammy October 27, 2011 at 10:18 am

    I’m 46 and I never thought I carried a father wound…even though I always broke down on Father’s Day (my poor husband). Just a few months ago, God started working on my heart. During worship at church one Sunday, I felt God saying that I needed to forgive & let go-I kept that to myself. That afternoon, a friend messaged me and told me that she felt God telling her that I needed to forgive my father because it was only hurting me…wow…God actually cared enough to tell someone else! Anyways, at least I’m aware of the wound now, but still haven’t made progress.

  • Reply Tammy October 27, 2011 at 10:19 am

    I am subscribed to the newsletter & via RSS 🙂

  • Reply ChrisTan October 27, 2011 at 10:20 am

    Thanks for yr sharing and i would like to obtain a copy of His book to read.

  • Reply Lisa H October 27, 2011 at 10:22 am

    Learning what ABBA meant changed things in me! I had never heard this word spoken before other than the music group from way back when. My life was in shambles, I had no trust in anyone, was at the bottom of my rope and ready to just give up completely any hope life could be better. I think I had already lost that hope. One evening someone God put in my life, to walk with me through my journey back to him, prayed for me. She said that we needed to speak with ABBA. During that prayer I truly believe he was present with us! Its the first time I felt his presence. Its the first time I felt like I was really going before God as a broken, ashamed and afraid little girl. I kept thinking about my friend saying to God that we needed ABBA that night. So I of course did searches on it, found it in the Bible etc but didn’t get it so I finally asked her what did that mean and why did she decide to ask for ABBA?
    Her answer still just makes me want to cry. She told me it was a very personal name for God, it was like a child calling out to their Daddy. Not Father, but Daddy. She told me that she just felt like I needed to be able to crawl up into my Daddy’s lap and be held for a while because I looked like I was simply scared to death. NEVER had I ever thought of God in this way. I mean he’s GOD! He’s not going to hold ME in his lap! I didn’t deserve that from him! But He came that night and every other time I’ve needed him since. I am sure he was there all those times I didn’t even know about him or think about him but he gave her the words to speak that night and ABBA came to hold his little girl in his arms. He let me snuggle in beside him and let out my tears and take in a breath. Through all of this stuff in my life ABBA has been right beside me as I began to tell my story to this friend, to a counselor, to my pastor and my church family. He has never left me!

  • Reply Tammy October 27, 2011 at 10:22 am

    Shared on Facebook

  • Reply Katie H October 27, 2011 at 11:01 am

    I carry a father wound. The Lord saw it best to give me that experience. It was hard but I didn’t see how it would affect me until I was older. I needed that security, support and love that an earthly father can give. As a result, I often search for “things” (and sometimes people) to fill that void. God continues to call me away from that search to HIM. He is the only One that can satisfy my father wound. It is inside me to remind me that my heavenly Father is perfect and He will never leave or abandon me. He knows me and accepts me.
    I do know sadness and loneliness. But I also know hope. I know that what the enemy means to destroy a heart, God plans good. God is my hope.

  • Reply Katie October 27, 2011 at 11:12 am

    All is grace… oh to know those wounds of brokenness from childhood, divorce and abuse. I know hurts well and made the same vow… to be good… to people please… to fix others…. to stuff my emotions…. to stay so busy I can’t feel…. (all of which are my own addictions). I won’t be able to participate in the jam today due to time issues. I may come back and do something over the weekend if I get some time. God does heal those addictions and hurts through being ABBA FATHER. I haven’t read any of his books, but sounds like I need to check some out. Thank you friend.

  • Reply Susan Ringoen October 27, 2011 at 11:34 am

    So happy to learn of this new book. “All Is Grace,” is a phrase I keep coming back to this year…so craving Grace…wanting to know it more; wanting to be able to remember it and share it. I’m doing a Bible study this year on Dan Allender’s book “to be told,” a book about “story” – our individual stories and God’s bigger story. This memoir seems to fit a theme I’m following …hope I’m a winner of the giveaway : )

  • Reply marieDee October 27, 2011 at 11:38 am

    Your review is beautiful, and I am eager to read the book!

  • Reply Miriam October 27, 2011 at 11:40 am

    This is a subject that is very dear to my heart. I get teary eye as I think about it. I never knew my father. Never saw a picture of him. The only thing I knew about him was that he hit my mother and that she loved him. Growing up I just remember one time when I felt the loss. Other than that, I never missed him… until Jesus came into my life. Funny that something as wonderful as that would cause me to long for a father I never knew. It was something I tried sharing with my sisters but I only got rebuked because in their eyes I was causing our mother pain. What about my pain? Was I being selfish? Disloyal?
    After 38 years of marriage my husband and I separated. This was 8 years ago. This brought up the feeling of abandonment that I had always felt growing up.
    Today I can say that My Father’s love is suffiicient. It doesn’t mean that I don’t still desire to know who my father is. It just means that it doesn’t hurt as much and it doesn’t define who I am.
I am a child of the King! PTL

  • Reply John Campion October 27, 2011 at 11:42 am

    I’m basically new to your “Faith Barista”. I’m enjoying your views and insights.

  • Reply Wanda Patrick October 27, 2011 at 11:43 am

    Earlier this year I was craving to be closer to God. I had been thorough many trials the last year and need …. a hug. I signed up for a online coarse “The Fatherhood of God”. This is where I got plugged into Marc Stibbe books on the God the Father, Abba. Now when ever I feel I am sliding down that ramp to a pit, I will get an email or will go to a blog and someone is talking about the heart of the Father. Then all those words I had read swarm back to me and my heart feels with the joy and contentment.

  • Reply marieDee October 27, 2011 at 11:47 am

    I have subscribed!

  • Reply marieDee October 27, 2011 at 11:48 am

    Shared on facebook!

  • Reply Tammy October 27, 2011 at 12:01 pm

    The word “grace” has certainly been in my path of late. I have not read this book. It is one to put on my reading list.

  • Reply Caroline October 27, 2011 at 12:13 pm

    Wow, I love this: “Each time we give ourselves permission to speak out of our brokenness, we say to each other: God’s grace is bigger than me.”

    This book and his story truly sounds amazing (because it’s filled with His grace).

    Thanks for this kind opportunity! And thanks for hosting us here each week, Bonnie.

  • Reply Caroline October 27, 2011 at 12:15 pm

    I tweeted about this post and giveaway here, too: http://twitter.com/#!/Keep_Tha_Faith/statuses/129637171396214784

  • Reply messymarriage October 27, 2011 at 12:25 pm

    Yes, I have a father-wound at the hands of a father who was in my life but absent at the same time.

    I absolutely love your statement, “Each time we give ourselves permission to speak out of our brokenness, we say to each other: God’s grace is bigger than me.” That’s my heartbeat! Thanks for this beautiful post!

  • Reply Cheri Galloway October 27, 2011 at 12:31 pm

    God has blessed me tremendously through the writings of Brennan Manning. I believe I could still be lost in the bonds of legalism if it were not for him. He is an author that makes me want to run to my Father and to His Word. We all need a person like Manning in our lives to point us to The Way. Would love to read his latest, and probably, his last book.

  • Reply Cindy October 27, 2011 at 12:35 pm

    I love the story of Brennan Manning and thrilled to hear that he has written his memoirs. Can’t wait to read it and hope that I am chosen as one of the 10 blessed winners of the giveway.

    Thanks for all you do to inspire us “Faith Barista”

    ~ Cindy

  • Reply Frank Tan October 27, 2011 at 12:37 pm

    Really interested to read this one. I agree that it’s worth it to read “when grace shone” the most.

  • Reply Frank Tan October 27, 2011 at 12:37 pm

    Subscribed to Faith Barista

  • Reply Frank Tan October 27, 2011 at 12:44 pm

    Shared the post on Facebook

  • Reply ~Lynn October 27, 2011 at 1:08 pm

    I have never heard of any of his books or him! Thanks for providing this information.

    You are so right… we all have our needs for grace. This so touched me because hearing of others suffering or having gone through extreme suffering, draws something out of the heart. Mainly compassion. But it also gives hope to those suffering ones.

    Thank you and God Bless You for touching on life changing issues instead of fluff.

  • Reply Diane Yuhas October 27, 2011 at 1:21 pm

    Like Brennan Manning, I grew up feeling insufficient, not good enough, unimportant, insignificant, and simply not enough. To walk in grace is a daily challenge for me. I find myself striving over and over to please God and when I fail, even though I know better, there is always the thought in the back of my mind that this time I went too far. That’s why I changed the title of my blog to Grace Every Day – to remind me. PS: Tweeted this & sent it to Facebook!

  • Reply Christina Burrell October 27, 2011 at 2:31 pm

    I lve the phrase “the operating room of grace”….I would love to win.

  • Reply Christina Burrell October 27, 2011 at 2:31 pm

    Email subscriber

  • Reply Valerie E. October 27, 2011 at 2:43 pm

    ‘… the nagging feeling that for some reason you’re defective and unworthy.’

    In the last few years I have begun to say something very similar to this out loud to trusted friends. The mere fact of voicing and acknowledging this familial wound has started to open my heart. I have never read or heard anyone else express these words – I need this book. Thank you for the opportunity.

  • Reply Julie October 27, 2011 at 4:05 pm

    I love my earthly father dearly.

    As a provider and protector, he receives my standing ovation.

    But his heart was far from me and he closed himself off to me….a wound and deficit that remains to this day. The closest I got to him was when I lay my head on his lap during long Sunday evening church services. I can still bring back the smell of his aftershave and the feel of his polyester dress pants.

    It has been a long road, to be able to see God as ever wanting to hold me or cherish me or pursue me. Daddy wounds go deep. But I am choosing to let God rebuild my heart from scratch. I choose healing and restoration and forgiveness….

  • Reply Lisa Marie October 27, 2011 at 5:29 pm

    I love the thought of being able to crawl into the lap of my Abba Father. My earthly father has loved me unconditionally, but still I need the love and acceptance of my heavenly Father. I am looking forward to reading this book!

  • Reply Lisa Marie October 27, 2011 at 5:32 pm

    I shared this giveaway on Facebook!

  • Reply Lisa Marie October 27, 2011 at 5:33 pm

    I am already a subscriber to Faith Barista!

  • Reply Heidi October 27, 2011 at 5:33 pm

    What a helpful post! I’ve been blessed with a godly father but my husband’s father is no longer part of the picture and he says it doesn’t bother him but I honestly believe it’s attributed to our marriage problems (amongst other reasons as well). I believe this book would be so helpful to me! Your post really hit home today! Thank you!!!

  • Reply Julia October 27, 2011 at 6:28 pm

    Wow, these thoughts are resonating so deeply with me. I lost my father at a young age and God has really filled that wound in a powerful way. This book sounds like a great read.

  • Reply Patricia October 27, 2011 at 7:09 pm

    Somewhere, just yesterday Brennan Manning’s name popped up and I looked into his new book. Am so intrigued to start reading it. Wow, what a story he has to tell. I am feeling that it will be one of those reads, that leaves you with a feeling of peace despite the horror and hurt he lived through. So encouraging to hear about someone that, against all odds is victorious…Really want to read his other books as well…I’d love to win the book, thanks Bonnie for this offer.

  • Reply Julie Todd October 27, 2011 at 7:24 pm

    I would love to read this book.

  • Reply Julie Todd October 27, 2011 at 7:27 pm

    I also read the first chapter as a preview. I couldn’t get over the story that was unfolding. I have stepped into the Room of Grace after 50 + years of living in the Room of Good Intentions. I will never be the same….

  • Reply Julie Todd October 27, 2011 at 7:31 pm

    Shared on Twitter (JewelzSightings)

  • Reply Julie Todd October 27, 2011 at 7:32 pm

    Shared on Facebook

  • Reply nancy October 27, 2011 at 7:35 pm

    I couldn’t make it through the day without God’s grace!

  • Reply Jeniffer S October 27, 2011 at 8:31 pm

    God is so gracious. And all that we have, all that we have been given? All truly is grace. We deserve so much less. We are worth so much less. But He is gracious to give what we need, to both the just and the unjust. And His compassions are new every morning! Great is His faithfulness!!

  • Reply Katie October 27, 2011 at 8:37 pm

    Shared on FB. And commented earlier. Again thank you Bonnie! Your words so encourage me.

  • Reply Tina October 27, 2011 at 11:57 pm

    Thank you, and Brennan, for sharing! I thought I was the only one.

  • Reply Kaatrina October 28, 2011 at 5:56 am

    the book looks amazing. i’d love to win 🙂

  • Reply Kaatrina October 28, 2011 at 5:56 am

    and i’m subscribed 🙂

  • Reply Debbie October 28, 2011 at 5:59 am

    I’ve read several of Brennan Manning’s books and loved them. I shared your post on Facebook and also twitter. I already subscribe. I hope to write a blog post on Heart Choices on Saturday and link up. Although I have a father who continues to love me, he certainly isn’t perfect. But I’m so thankful for that love I received growing up. However, your words really touched my heart in a different way. That is what I hope to write about.

    Blessings and love,
    Debbie

  • Reply Angela R October 28, 2011 at 6:31 am

    I love Brennan Manning’s books–such a powerful & needed word of grace. I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t need this message. Thank you, Brennan, and God bless you.

  • Reply Angela R October 28, 2011 at 6:35 am

    Just shared on Facebook!

  • Reply Karla Meachem October 28, 2011 at 7:05 am

    I’ve read other reviews about ALL IS GRACE, but your review was truly heart-felt and sincere. Loved your open-ness! Thank you for your transparency!

    You’ve moved this book up my list to read…right to the top!!!

    Thanx for a chance to win!

  • Reply Clifton Ditmore October 28, 2011 at 7:18 am

    I am a huge fan of Brennan Manning and have some of his books. I would love to read this one.

  • Reply Paula Osborne October 28, 2011 at 7:20 am

    I have been reading a book recently called Relentless about Grace and it is a really different outlook on it. This is a must read for everyone because I feel he might be right and we can be more through God’s Grace then we are.
    I am interested in reading all I can find about Grace so would be glad to be in your drawing for this book. Thanks for sharing.

  • Reply Barb Holzkamp October 28, 2011 at 7:47 am

    Your 31 day posts have been such an encouragement and blessings and some convictions also. This author will some one I will read. Thanks for sharing. Why is it so easy to give grace to others but not to ourselves. I often told my, now adult daughters, not beat up on themselves because the world beats upon us enough. I am not very good at following my own advice.

  • Reply Celia October 28, 2011 at 8:10 am

    I have Christian parents who love me, but have difficulty showing love and have never openly shown approval or support. My mother has difficulty being proud or supportive of me and often says hurtful things that cut me down. I have hardened myself to this and began not sharing important life events with her. I want to be very proud, supportive and encouraging to my daughters and never cause them to feel the way my mother did. Your words were a blessing to me. Thank you for introducing me to to Brennan Manning’s writings!

  • Reply Deborah October 28, 2011 at 5:57 pm

    Thank you for introducing me to this author. I ‘m inspired to read the books.

  • Reply Jocelyn October 29, 2011 at 10:02 am

    Oh wow, how I can so relate. I remember standing in the subway station with my Mom when I was about 10 years old. I kept asking her when we would be moving back in with my Dad. She then told me that she and my Dad had divorced and there was no going back. I was STUNNED to say the least. I purposed on that day, on that platform, that NO ONE would ever hurt me again. I would not cry, or feel the pain inflicted on me. That was many, many years ago, and I can’t really say that I have ever found my voice. I still feel that I need to be accepted and loved, and when I am rejected by others, it’s really hard. By the Grace of God I met my future husband, and the Lord opened my heart. I may not have a voice, but I have a Heavenly Father who loves me, and He has blessed me with a wonderful caring husband. Thanks for sharing about this book.

  • Reply Jocelyn October 29, 2011 at 10:05 am

    I’ve signed up to subscribe to Faith Barista.

  • Reply Debbie October 29, 2011 at 10:55 am

    I finally got my post up for this Faith Barista Jam. But I knew that I needed to participate. It’s actually been cathartic writing my post. So much has been bottled up inside that needed to come out. Thanks for making us think Bonnie. You do that so well.

    Blessings and love,
    Debbie

  • Reply Lynn October 29, 2011 at 12:21 pm

    Thanks for this review! I didn’t know he had done another book. I loved Abba, Child. I read it at a time when I was depressed and wondering where God was leading. It was so good to read and be reminded how much God loves me. Not just loves me, but takes delight in me. It was such a helpful book! I am looking forward to getting this one and reading it too!

    • Reply Lynn October 29, 2011 at 12:23 pm

      I also subscribed to your feed. I have so enjoyed reading your blog and look forward to reading it in my inbox.

  • Reply Sharon Goemaere October 29, 2011 at 3:27 pm

    Wow! I am a new reader here and this post really touched me in a deep way.I sure hope to win a copy of this book.The comment about being a good boy and losing his voice really resonated within me.I was a good girl who lost her voice…At 49 I am just now really beginning to get it back.~Sharon Goemaere

  • Reply Sunny October 29, 2011 at 5:01 pm

    I so want to read this…I was a credit card aholic….we lost our home because we had to declare bankruptcy. God’s grace covers a multitude of sins. Raggamuffin Gospel was so good I really want to read this one…..I am a fan of his…..thanks for such an awesome giveaway…..

  • Reply Sunny October 29, 2011 at 5:04 pm

    I shared on Facebook!!

  • Reply Sunny October 29, 2011 at 5:05 pm

    I shared on Twitter!!

  • Reply Sunny October 29, 2011 at 5:06 pm

    I follow you on Facebook too!!

  • Reply Suzann Brown October 29, 2011 at 7:00 pm

    I was blessed with meeting Brennan Manning in person at a Singles Christian retreat early in my Christian journey. I liked his writing, but sitting in the audience I was so overcome with emotion I could not stop crying. I felt God speaking to me directly through Brennan’s words ..I am certain I heard something that touched me to the core. I have never forgotten that brief encounter with God. I would love a copy of his new book.

  • Reply kimberley October 30, 2011 at 1:39 pm

    i came to this post a few days late…but it has come on the *perfect* day. after a week of wrestling with what has hurt me the most, having it ravage me through completely, this is like a gentle balm on a healing wound.

    thank you…thank you for sharing the vulnerable places. for being brave to share the fragile places so that others can be strengthened in Him.

  • Reply Jenn Calling Home October 30, 2011 at 8:41 pm

    I would love to read Brennan’s final book. I’ve read two others, including Ragamuffin Gospel, which was like a mini-retreat.

  • Reply ann October 31, 2011 at 1:14 pm

    I have so many “father wounds” it has made it tough for me to really *believe* that my heavenly Father will be there for me.

  • Reply ann October 31, 2011 at 1:16 pm

    subscribed to Faith Barista 🙂

  • Reply vaness October 31, 2011 at 9:14 pm

    I have been so thankful to come to know God as my Father, especially after the death of my earthly Father.

  • Reply In God’s Heart I Am Precious November 1, 2011 at 4:50 am

    […] Be Sociable, Share! Share this:ShareEmailPrintFacebook Filed Under: Life Stuff […]

  • Reply Julie November 2, 2011 at 5:07 am

    Thanks for the review. Looks like an excellent book. Looking forward to reading it sometime!

  • Reply The Book That Would Not Go Away | Faith Barista November 3, 2011 at 2:30 am

    […] I find my voice. […]

  • Reply Jeff Goins November 4, 2011 at 5:20 am

    I loved this book. Thanks for sharing your own thoughts.

  • Reply Staci Raymond June 24, 2012 at 5:47 pm

    I dont really have the right words to say how much of an impact Brennan has had on my life with his work. I named my son after him, that may give some indication. He exposed my mind (for the first time) to what grace looks like and started me on a journey of healing and dealing with what my Father image is and who I am to Him. I love this man and I am so grateful that God has used him so profoundly to show us what grace and mercy look like.

    • Reply Bonnie Gray July 2, 2012 at 8:51 am

      Thnx for sharing, Staci!

    • Reply Bonnie Gray July 2, 2012 at 8:54 am

      Blessings, Staci!

  • Reply Katrina Hansen October 29, 2013 at 10:23 pm

    Ilistened to the audio version and found the book very i insightful and was encouraged by Brennen’s transparency and his journey.

  • Reply Anita McIlveen December 31, 2013 at 12:40 pm

    My hubby and I were privileged to see and hear Brennan Manning speak in person twice. His writings have benefited our souls. We feel blessed to have known him.

    • Reply Bonnie Gray January 4, 2014 at 4:51 am

      I was just reading his memoir “All His Grace” over winter vacation this few days. One of my favorite books. What a blessing to have seen/heard Brennan twice, Anita!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG

Sign up to refresh your soul with God’s love and rest. I’ll send you encouragement to nurture your heart and wellbeing. I’ll cheer you on!

SUBSCRIBE NOW»

Pull up a chair. Refresh your soul. Be inspired with soul care, stories & encouragement here. Breathe. This is a quiet space to swap some stories. Share your journey. Be the beloved. Be you. Serving up shots of faith for everyday life.
Bonnie Gray

“Bonnie has often led the way to freedom and truth by going there first herself. Her ability to invite us in as readers into our own stories only makes this world a better, more healed place.” 

– Annie F. Downs, New York Times bestselling author of That Sounds Fun

“If you’ve ever been weary and needed room to breathe, then Bonnie Gray is the guide you’ve been looking for as you journey with Jesus to a new place of peace and freedom in your life.” 

Holley Gerth, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Powerful Power of Introverts

Order Now »

LISTEN TO BONNIE’S BREATHE PODCAST

VOTED 2022 CHRISTIAN BOOK AWARD FINALIST BY ECPA

“In a world crying out for kindess and belonging, this is a book needed for our times. Sweet Like Jasmine is a gift, a beautiful remembrance, that God treasures each of our broken hearts in His sweeping story of redemption.” 

– Ann Voskamp, New York Times bestselling author of The Broken Way

Order Now »

BONNIE IS A TRUSTED VOICE TO SO MANY – FEATURED ON

Archives

Compassion International Blogger

Compassion International Blogger

Sometimes it takes more faith for us to enter into a child's story than simply praying that it changes. Experience these stories unscripted.

Read the stories»

Facebook Twitter Google Plus Instagram RSS Pinterest
Bonnie Gray

Contact

© 2018 Bonnie Gray. All rights reserved. Website by Contemplate Design | Privacy Policy
Bonnie Gray
  • Blog
  • Soul Care Quiz
  • Podcast
  • Books
  • About
  • Speaking
  • Contact